A fluid mixing assembly comprising a fluid agitating element adapted to reciprocate within a fluid between a first position and a second position. The fluid agitating element having an internally disposed magnetic member adapted to couple with an external drive device.
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1. A mixing assembly, comprising:
a fluid agitating element;
a magnetic member engaged with the fluid agitating element; and
a diffusing element comprising a sidewall having a thickness defined by opposing surfaces and a plurality of apertures positioned along the sidewall and extending through the thickness, wherein the mixing assembly further comprises a valve element, the valve element extending at least partially around the diffusing element, wherein the valve element comprises a plurality of gates, the gates at least partially aligned with the apertures, and wherein the valve element is adapted to permit fluid flow in a single radial direction.
2. The mixing assembly according to
3. The mixing assembly according to
4. The mixing assembly according to
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8. The mixing assembly according to
9. The mixing assembly according to
10. The mixing assembly according to
11. The mixing assembly according to
12. The mixing assembly of
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This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Patent Application No. 61/856,455 entitled “RECIPROCATING FLUID AGITATOR,” by Albert A. Werth, filed Jul. 19, 2013 and this application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Patent Application No. 61/860,380 entitled “RECIPROCATING FLUID AGITATOR,” by Albert A. Werth, filed Jul. 31, 2013, which applications are both assigned to the current assignee hereof and incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
The present disclosure relates to a device for agitating fluids, and more particularly to a magnetic reciprocating assembly capable of efficiently mixing fluids in a vessel.
Mixing of fluidic components within a fluid often requires agitation of those components within the fluid. In this regard, mixing can occur in one of several ways: rotary stirring, erratically moving a stirring element within a fluid, shaking a fluid reservoir containing the fluid, deforming the body of the reservoir, circulating the fluid using a pump, or using any combination thereof.
Known techniques for imparting these mixing actions generally include the use of a shaft which extends from the exterior of the fluid reservoir to the fluid contained therein. Shafts extending through the fluid reservoir often introduce seals and fittings into the wall of the reservoir which may fail or leak during operation. Moreover, these seals and fittings can result in contamination of the fluid and/or the component being mixed therein.
Some techniques have been developed to use a magnetic rotating drive to drive a magnet contained in a vessel and stir the fluid therein. In further techniques, superconducting magnets are utilized to suspend the mixing assembly within the reservoir. These assemblies are expensive and require extremely cold operating conditions.
Therefore, a need exist to develop a new type of mixing assembly which can efficiently mix a fluid.
Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and are not limited in the accompanying figures.
The following description in combination with the figures is provided to assist in understanding the teachings disclosed herein. The following discussion will focus on specific implementations and embodiments of the teachings. This focus is provided to assist in describing the teachings and should not be interpreted as a limitation on the scope or applicability of the teachings. However, other embodiments can be used based on the teachings as disclosed in this application.
The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive-or and not to an exclusive-or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).
Also, the use of “a” or “an” is employed to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the invention. This description should be read to include one, at least one, or the singular as also including the plural, or vice versa, unless it is clear that it is meant otherwise. For example, when a single item is described herein, more than one item may be used in place of a single item. Similarly, where more than one item is described herein, a single item may be substituted for that more than one item.
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. To the extent not described herein, many details regarding specific materials and processing acts are conventional and may be found in textbooks and other sources within the fluid mixing art.
Unless otherwise specified, the use of any numbers or ranges when describing a component is approximate and merely illustrative and should not be limited to include only that specific value.
The following description is related to a fluid mixing assembly, and particularly, to a mixing assembly adapted to reciprocate within a fluid. For example, a mixing assembly can include a magnetic member adapted to engage with a drive device such as a rotatable magnetic drive or an electromagnetic drive such that rotation of the rotatable drive device or periodic energization of the electromagnetic drive can cause reciprocation of the mixing assembly and pumping of the fluid surrounding the mixing assembly.
Referring initially to
As discussed above, the mixing assembly 1 can further include a support 24 engaged with the fluid agitating element. The support can be a static support and adapted to be stationary. For example, in particular embodiments, the support 24 can be coupled or even directly attached to or integrally formed within the interior of a vessel 34. Generally, the support 24 can be coupled to the interior of the vessel on the bottom wall, a top wall, a side wall, or any combination thereof. In particular embodiments, the support 24 can be coupled to the interior of the vessel on the bottom wall.
Referring now to
The fluid agitating element 2 can have any general profile when viewed from above. In particular embodiments, the fluid agitating element 2 can have a generally circular shape, a pyramidal shape, a polygonal shape, or any combination thereof when viewed from above. In particular embodiments, and as illustrated in
As illustrated in
In a particular embodiment, the fluid agitating element 2 can have a maximum height, HFAE, as measured along the central axis 4. A ratio of DFAE:HFAE can be no less than 0.2, no less than 0.3, no less than 0.4, no less than 0.5, no less than 0.6, no less than 0.7, no less than 0.8, no less than 0.9, no less than 1.0, no less than 1.1, no less than 1.2, no less than 1.3, no less than 1.4, no less than 1.5, no less than 1.6, no less than 1.7, no less than 1.8, no less than 1.9, no less than 2.0, no less than 3.0, no less than 4.0, no less than 5.0, no less than 10.0. The ratio of DFAE:HFAE can be no greater than 1000, such as no greater than 900, no greater than 800, no greater than 700, no greater than 600, no greater than 500, no greater than 400, no greater than 300, no greater than 200, no greater than 100, no greater than 75, no greater than 50, no greater than 25, no greater than 20, no greater than 15, no greater than 10, no greater than 5. The ratio of DFAE:HFAE can also be within a range between and including any of the ratio values described above, such as, for example, between 1.0 and 5.0.
Referring now to
As illustrated in
The internal cavity 12 can be a sealed environment such that it is sealed from the surrounding fluid to be mixed. In particular embodiments, the internal cavity can be hermetically sealed. Moreover, as shown in
Referring again to
The magnetic member 16 can have any general shape or profile. Referring to
In a particular embodiment, the magnetic member 16 can be secured within the internal cavity 12 by an adhesive. In another embodiment, the magnetic member 16 can be mechanically deformed or can have a non-symmetrical shape adapted to the contour of the internal cavity 12. In a further embodiment, the magnetic member 16 and the fluid agitating element 2 can have at least one poka-yoke. As referred to herein, a “poka-yoke” is an engagement means for aligning and maintaining components relative to each other at a desired position and/or orientation. The poka-yoke can include a tab extending from one of the magnetic member 16 and the fluid agitating element 2. The tab can be adapted to engage with a corresponding slot within the other of the magnetic member 16 and fluid agitating element 2. In yet another embodiment, the magnetic member 16 can be free to move relative to the internal cavity 12 of the fluid agitating element 2. In this regard, the magnetic member 16 can be adapted to rotate or slidably oscillate within the internal cavity 12.
The magnetic member 16 can be any material that is capable of magnetic interaction with a drive device. For example, in particular embodiments, the magnetic member can include a ferromagnetic. In this regard, the magnetic member can be selected from a ferromagnetic material including steel, iron, cobalt, nickel, and earth magnets. In a further embodiment, the magnetic member 16 can be a magnetic material.
The magnetic member can have any number of poles in any orientation, depending on the type of drive device. In certain embodiments, the magnetic member 16 can be bipolar, having both a positive and a negative pole.
Referring again to
Referring to
In further embodiments, the diffusing element 38 can have a substantially parallel sidewall 40. In another embodiment, the diffusing element 38 can be generally frustoconical. In this regard, the sidewall 40 can further include a second diameter, DD2. A ratio of DD2:DD1 can be no less than 1.01, no less than 1.05, no less than 1.10, no less than 1.15, no less than 1.20, no less than 1.25, no less than 1.30, no less than 1.35. The ratio of DD2:DD1 can be no greater than 2.00, no greater than 1.75, no greater than 1.50, no greater than 1.40, no greater than 1.30, no greater than 1.20. The ratio of DD2:DD1 can be within a range between and including any of the ratios described above, such as, for example, between 1.01 and 1.20.
In yet another embodiment, the diffusing element 38 can have any other generally annular shape. For example, the diffusing element 38 can have a toroidal shape, a triangular shape, or a rectilinear shape. Additionally, the diffusing element 38 can be tapered, bent, twisted, curved, or orient in any direction or degree. In another particular embodiment, the diffusing element 38 can have any polygonal shape. In this regard, the diffusing element 38 can form a closed ring with a segmented sidewall 40.
The diffusing element 38 can have a height, HD, as measured perpendicular to the diameter, DD1, as measured between two diametrically opposite points on the diffusing element 38. In a particular aspect, a ratio of HD:DD1 can be no greater than 0.50, no greater than 0.45, no greater than 0.40, no greater than 0.35, no greater than 0.30, no greater than 0.25, no greater than 0.20, no greater than 0.15, no greater than 0.10. The ratio of HD:DD1 can be no less than 0.005, no less than 0.010, no less than 0.015, no less than 0.020, no less than 0.025, no less than 0.030, no less than 0.050, no less than 0.100, no less than 0.200, no less than 0.300, no less than 0.400. Additionally, the ratio of HD:DD1 can be within a range between and including any of the ratios described above, such as, for example, between 0.3 and 0.5.
In particular embodiments, the diffusing element 38 can comprise a metal. In further embodiments, the diffusing element 38 can comprise a polymer. In this regard, the diffusing element 38 can be formed from injection molding. The diffusing element 38 can be a monolithic piece or can include two or more separate components attached together. Attachment of the components can be performed by use of an adhesive, mechanical deformation (e.g., crimping of the components), welding, or any other method for joining two components together.
The diffusing element 38 can further include a plurality of apertures 46 positioned along the sidewall 40. The apertures 46 can be positioned on the sidewall 40 of the diffusing element 38 to allow for the passage of a fluid therethrough. The apertures 46 can comprise any shape cutout into the sidewall 40. For example, the apertures 46 can be rectilinear, circular, triangular, or can have any other polygonal shape.
In a particular aspect, the apertures 46 can be formed to have generally the same shape. The apertures 46 can also be formed to have generally the same size. In a particular aspect, the apertures 46 can be formed to have various shapes and/or sizes.
In particular embodiments, the apertures 46 can be positioned along a single plane on the sidewall 40 of the diffusing element 38. This alignment of the apertures 46 can help to facilitate equal fluidic mixing around the perimeter of the diffusing element 38. Alternatively, the apertures 46 can be formed on two or more planes along the sidewall 40 of the diffusing element 38. In this regard, the apertures 46 can generate uneven fluidic mixing characteristics around the perimeter of the diffusing element 38. Uneven fluidic mixing may be advantageous in situations where several components of varying density are to be mixed into a single solution.
In a particular embodiment, the sidewall 40 of the diffusing element 38 can have an inner surface area, AD, and the apertures 46 can define a total area, AA, as measured by the surface area of the diffusing element 38 devoid of material. A ratio of AD:AA can be at least 1.1, at least 1.2, at least 1.3, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at least 2.0, at least 2.1, at least 2.2, at least 2.3, at least 2.4, at least 2.5, at least 2.6, at least 2.7, at least 2.8, at least 2.9, at least 3.0, at least 3.5, at least 4.0, at least 4.5. The ratio of AD:AA can be no greater than 100, no greater than 75, no greater than 50, no greater than 40, no greater than 30, no greater than 20, no greater than 15, no greater than 10, no greater than 5, no greater than 4, no greater than 3, no greater than 2. Additionally, the ratio of AD:AA can be within a range between and including any of the values described above, such as, for example, between 2.7 and 5.0. As the ratio of AD:AA increases, the volume of fluid that is permitted passage through the apertures 46 of the diffusing element 38 can increase.
In particular embodiments, the diffusing element 38 can further include a radial flange 48. The radial flange 48 can extend from an end of the diffusing element 38 and can allow the diffusing element 38 to engage with an inner wall of the vessel. The radial flange 48 can be formed from the sidewall 40 of the diffusing element 38 by bending a section of the sidewall 40 radially inward or outward. To facilitate easier radial bending, the radial flange 48 can include a plurality of splays or cuts (not shown). In particular, the splays can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the central point (not shown) of the diffusing element 38.
Referring to
In particular embodiments, the valve element 50 can comprise a substantially flexible material such as a polymer, a thermoplastic material, an elastomer, a silicone based material, or any combination thereof. In other embodiments, the valve element 50 can include multiple materials. For example, the gates 52 of the valve element 50 can comprise a first material while the remainder of the valve element 50 comprises an alternate material. In this regard, the gates 52 can have a greater flexibility than the remainder of the valve element 50.
In particular embodiments, the valve element 50 can have a greater flexibility than the diffusing element 38. In this regard, the valve element 50 can operatively permit fluid flow through the apertures 46 while the diffusing element 38 can maintain rigidity and structural integrity during operation of the mixing assembly 1.
The valve element 50 can have an average radial thickness, TV. Additionally, the diffusing element 38 can have an average radial thickness, TD. In particular embodiments, the thickness of the valve element 50 can be greater than the thickness of the diffusing element 38. In another embodiment, TD can be equal to TV. In yet a further embodiment, TD can be less than TV.
In one embodiment, a ratio of TD:TV can be at least 0.01, at least 0.02, at least 0.03, at least 0.04, at least 0.1, at least 0.2, at least 0.3, at least 0.4, at least 0.5, at least 0.6, at least 0.7, at least 0.8, at least 0.9, at least 1.0, at least 1.1, at least 1.2, at least 1.3, at least 1.4, at least 1.5, at least 1.6, at least 1.7, at least 1.8, at least 1.9, at least 2.0. In this embodiment, the ratio of TD:TV can be no greater than 100, no greater than 50, no greater than 25, no greater than 10, no greater than 9, no greater than 8, no greater than 7, no greater than 6, no greater than 5, no greater than 4, no greater than 3, no greater than 2. Additionally, in this embodiment, the ratio of TD:TV can be within a range between and including any of the values described above.
The relative radial thickness of the diffusing element 38 and the valve element 50 can be determinative of the radial strength of the assembly 1. For example, the gates 52 of the valve element 50 can be formed with a greater thickness if the material selected for the valve element 50 is flexible and incapable of preventing the passage of fluid through the apertures 46 during operation. In this regard, the gates 52 of the valve element 50 can further include a rigid, or semi-rigid, framework (not shown) which can maintain the structural integrity of the gates 52 and prevent the gates 52 from collapsing or folding during operation of the mixing assembly 1. The framework (not shown) can be internally disposed within the gates 52, externally engaged with the gates 52, or partly internal within the gates 52. The framework can include a relatively rigid material arranged to provide sufficient structural integrity to the gates 52.
In a particular embodiment, the valve element 50 can be concentrically positioned radially inside of the sidewall 40 of the diffusing element 38. In this regard, an exterior surface 56 of the valve element 50 can be contoured to sit substantially flush with an inner surface 42 of the diffusing element 38. In another embodiment, the valve element 50 can be concentrically positioned radially outside of the sidewall 40 of the diffusing element 38. In this regard, an interior surface 58 of the valve element 50 can be contoured to sit substantially flush with an exterior surface 44 of the diffusing element 38. In yet a further embodiment, the valve element 50 can be integral with the diffusing element 38. In this regard, the diffusing element 38 can include a central gap (not shown) wherein the valve element 50 can be disposed. Alternatively, the diffusing element 38 can integrally include gates in relative communication with the apertures 46 of the diffusing element 38. These integral gates can substantially prohibit fluid flow in a single radial direction (i.e., radially inward or radially outward).
Referring to
In a particular embodiment, the gates 52 can be adapted to allow fluid flow through the diffusing element 38 in a single radial direction (e.g., radially inward or radially outward). As illustrated in
Referring now to
A ratio of S:DFAE, can be no less than 0.05, no less than 0.10, no less than 0.20, no less than 0.30, no less than 0.40, no less than 0.50, no less than 0.60, no less than 0.70, no less than 0.80, no less than 0.90, no less than 1.0, no less than 1.5. The ratio of S:DFAE can be no greater than 100, no greater than 90, no greater than 80, no greater than 70, no greater than 60, no greater than 50, no greater than 40, no greater than 30, no greater than 20, no greater than 10, no greater than 9, no greater than 8, no greater than 7, no greater than 6, no greater than 5, no greater than 4, no greater than 3, no greater than 2. Additionally, the ratio of S:DFAE can be within a range between and including any of the values described above, such as, for example, between 0.90 and 2.
In a particular aspect, the fluid agitating element 2 can translate along the support 24 at a rate of no less than 3 strokes per minute (SPM), no less than 5 SPM, no less than 10 SPM, no less than 20 SPM, no less than 30 SPM, no less than 40 SPM, no less than 50 SPM, no less than 75 SPM, no less than 100 SPM, no less than 150 SPM, no less than 200 SPM. In another aspect, the fluid agitating element 2 can translate along the support 24 at a rate of no greater than 1000 SPM, no greater than 900 SPM, no greater than 800 SPM, no greater than 700 SPM, no greater than 600 SPM, no greater than 500 SPM, no greater than 400 SPM, no greater than 300 SPM, no greater than 200 SPM, no greater than 100 SPM. The strokes per minute of the fluid agitating element 2 can also be within a range between and including any of the values described above.
In a particular embodiment, the support 24 can comprise a metal, a polymer, or a ceramic. The support 24 can further comprise a low friction layer 30 extending at least partially along the length of the column 28. The low friction layer 30 can comprise materials including, for example, a polymer, such as a polyketone, polyaramid, a polyimide, a polytherimide, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyetherslfone, a polysulfone, a polypheylene sulfone, a polyamideimide, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, a fluoropolymer, a polyamide, a polybenzimidazole, or any combination thereof.
In an example, the polymer material can include a polyketone, a polyaramid, a polyimide, a polyetherimide, a polyamideimide, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyphenylene sulfone, a fluoropolymer, a polybenzimidazole, a derivation thereof, or a combination thereof. In a particular example, the thermoplastic material can include a polymer, such as a polyketone, a thermoplastic polyimide, a polyetherimide, a polyphenylene sulfide, a polyether sulfone, a polysulfone, a polyamideimide, a derivative thereof, or a combination thereof. In a further example, the material can include polyketone, such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyether ketone, polyether ketone ketone, polyether ketone ether ketone, a derivative thereof, or a combination thereof. In an additional example, the thermoplastic polymer may be ultra high molecular weight polyethylene.
An example fluoropolymer includes fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), PTFE, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), a terpolymer of tetrafluoroethylene, hexafluoropropylene, and vinylidene fluoride (THV), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene copolymer (ECTFE), or any combination thereof. Fluoropolymers are used according to particular embodiments.
In a particular embodiment, the base 26 of the support 24 can be secured with the inner surface 36 of the vessel 34. Securement of the base 26 with the vessel 34 can occur by use of an adhesive, mechanical deformation, welding, or any other known method for securing two components. In a particular aspect, the base 26 can attach indirectly to the vessel 34 through a dish 78 which can engage with the inner surface 36 of the vessel 34.
The support 24 can further include a plurality of flutes 32 extending along an exterior surface 29 of the column 28. The flutes 32 can facilitate an enhanced fluidic bearing between the support 24 and the reciprocating fluid agitating element 2. In particular embodiments, the flutes 32 can be substantially parallel with the central axis 4 of the fluid agitating element 2. In other embodiments, the flutes 32 can be misaligned with the central axis 4 of the fluid agitating element 2 such that the flutes 32 form a substantially helical pattern along the exterior surface 29 of the column 28. In further embodiments, the flutes 32 can be oriented substantially perpendicular to the central axis 4 of the fluid agitating element 2.
The support 24 can include at least 1 flute per inch (FPI), at least 2 FPI, at least 3 FPI, at least 4 FPI, at least 5 FPI, at least 10 FPI, at least 20 FPI. The support can have no greater than 10,000 FPI, no greater than 5,000 FPI, no greater than 1,000 FPI, no greater than 500 FPI, no greater than 250 FPI, no greater than 100 FPI, no greater than 50 FPI. Additionally, the number of flutes per inch can be within a range between and including any of the values described above, such as, for example, 25 FPI.
Referring again to
Referring to
Referring now to
In particular embodiments, the radial clearance between the closest vertices (e.g., the closest points of contact) of the fluid agitating element 2 and the diffusing element 38 when the fluid agitating element 2 is in the first position can be at least 0.1 inches, at least 0.2 inches, at least 0.3 inches, at least 0.4 inches, at least 0.5 inches, at least 0.6 inches, at least 0.7 inches, at least 0.8 inches, at least 0.9 inches, at least 1.0 inches, at least 1.1 inches, at least 1.2 inches, at least 1.3 inches, at least 1.4 inches, at least 1.5 inches, at least 2.0 inches. In this regard, fluid is allowed to pass between the fluid agitating element 2 and the sidewall 40 of the diffusing element 38 and into a mixing cavity 68 defined generally by a volume located between the fluid agitating element 2 and the diffusing element 38.
As the fluid agitating element 2 translates towards the second position (illustrated in
Referring now to
As the assembly 1 translates towards the second position, the relative fluidic pressure within the mixing cavity 68 can continue to increase. As illustrated in
After the fluid agitating element 2 reaches the end of the first stroke, S, as defined by the fluid agitating element 2 reaching the second position, the fluid agitating element can again return to the first position, illustrated in
Referring to
In particular embodiments, the second valve element 70 can be engaged to an outer edge of the fluid agitating element 2. In this regard, the second valve element 70 can facilitate at least a partial fluidic seal between the fluid agitating element 2 and the diffusing element 38. The second valve element 70 can in turn increase the pressure within the mixing cavity 68 during translation of the fluid agitating element from the first position to the second position. Specifically, by providing an increased seal between the fluid agitating element 2 and the diffusing element 38, the second valve element 70 can decrease the volume of fluid which passes through the radial gap between the diffusing element 38 and the fluid agitating element 2, which can increase the fluidic pressure within the mixing cavity 68. Moreover, the second valve element 70 can increase the “pumping” action within the fluid by generating greater pressure gradients and more turbulent fluid flow within the vessel.
In particular embodiments, the second valve element 70 can comprise a substantially flexible material such as a polymer, a thermoplastic material, an elastomer, a silicone based material, or any combination thereof. In other embodiments, the second valve element 70 can include multiple materials. For example, the segments 76 can comprise a first material while the remainder of the second valve element 70 comprises a second material. In this regard, the segments 76 can have greater flexibility than the remainder of the second valve element 70. In a particular aspect, the second valve element 70 can have a greater flexibility than the fluid agitating element 2.
As illustrated in
Moreover, the dish 78 can further include a sidewall 79. The mixing assembly 1 can be positioned within the dish 78 such that fluid ejecting from the apertures 46 of the diffusing element 38 can collide with the sidewall 79. In a particular aspect, the collision of the fluid into the sidewall 79 can increase the mixing efficiency of the fluid.
In a particular embodiment, the dish 78 can be adapted to engage with the inside wall of a preexisting vessel. In this regard, the dish 78 can be affixed to the inner surface of the vessel to prevent the dish from disengaging therefrom. The dish 78 can have a diameter less than that of the vessel. In another embodiment, the dish 78 can extend outward from the vessel such that an outer surface of the dish 78 is visible from the outside of the vessel. In this embodiment, the dish 78 can have an engagement feature 81 adapted to engage with the vessel and prevent the dish 78 from disengaging therefrom. The engagement feature 81 can include a lip adapted to engage with the vessel 34. In a further embodiment, the dish 78 can extend into the vessel.
In a particular embodiment, the vessel can have flexible walls. In another embodiment, the vessel can have rigid walls. In a particular embodiment, the support 24 and/or diffusing element 38 can be affixed directly to the wall of the vessel. In another embodiment, the support 24 and/or diffusing element 38 can be affixed to the dish 78.
Referring now to
As illustrated in
The apertures 92 can be formed at any radial position of the fluid agitating element 2 and comprise any shape. For example, a center line 94 of the apertures 92 can have a diameter, DA, as measured parallel with the fluid agitating element 2. The length of DA can be less than the diameter of the fluid agitating element, DFAE. A ratio of DA:DFAE can be less than 0.9, less than 0.8, less than 0.7, less than 0.6, less than 0.5, less than 0.4, less than 0.3, less than 0.2. The ratio of DA:DFAE can be greater than 0.1, greater than 0.2, greater than 0.3, greater than 0.4, greater than 0.5, greater than 0.6, greater than 0.7, greater than 0.8. Additionally, the ratio of DA:DFAE can be in a range between and including any of the above described values, such as, for example, between 0.5 and 0.8.
In particular embodiments, the fluid agitating element 2 can have a total surface area, SAFAE. Moreover, the apertures 92 can form a total cutout area, CAA, within the fluid agitating element 2. A ratio of SAFAE:CAA can be at least 1.01, at least 1.5, at least 2.0, at least 2.5, at least 3.0, at least 3.5, at least 4.0, at least 5.0, at least 10.0, at least 20.0. The ratio of SAFAE:CAA can be no greater than 1000, no greater than 900, no greater than 800, no greater than 700, no greater than 600, no greater than 500, no greater than 400, no greater than 300, no greater than 200, no greater than 100, no greater than 50, no greater than 25, no greater than 10. Additionally, the ratio of SAFAE:CAA can be in a range between and including any of the above described values, such as, for example, between 1.5 and 10.0.
Each of the support members 96 of the fluid agitating element 2 can be oriented at an angle relative to the central axis 4. For example, the support members 96 can have a relative angle of 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees, 20 degrees, 25 degrees, 30 degrees, 35 degrees, 40 degrees, 45 degrees, 50 degrees, 55 degrees, 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, 75 degrees, 80 degrees, 85 degrees, or 90 degrees. Additionally, the angle of the support members 96 can be at any angle between and including the values described above. As the angle of the support members 96 increases, the volume of fluid permitted to pass through the apertures 92 can decrease.
A third valve element 98 can be positioned along the apertures 92 of the fluid agitating element 2. In particular, the third valve element 98 can be positioned substantially parallel with the second major surface 8 of the fluid agitating element 2. In this regard, the third valve element 98 can facilitate at least a partial fluidic seal of the apertures 92. As the fluid agitating element 2 translates from the first position, illustrated in
In particular embodiments, the third valve element 98 can comprise a substantially flexible material such as a polymer, a thermoplastic material, an elastomer, a silicone based material, or any combination thereof. In other embodiments, the third valve element 98 can be formed from multiple materials. In a particular aspect, the third valve element 98 can have a greater flexibility than the fluid agitating element 2.
The mixing assembly 1 can include the first valve element 50, the second valve element 70, the third valve element 98, and any combination thereof. For example, in certain embodiments, the mixing assembly 1 can include the first and second valve elements 50, 70. In other embodiments, the mixing assembly 1 can include the first valve element 50 and the third valve element 98. In yet other embodiments, the mixing assembly 1 can include the second valve element 70 and the third valve element 98.
Referring to
In a particular embodiment, the drive device 80 can be a rotatable magnetic drive 82. The rotatable magnetic drive 82 can be bipolar, containing a positive pole 84 and a negative pole 86. The positive and negative poles 84, 86 of the rotatable magnetic drive 82 can be positioned in a plane substantially perpendicular to the central axis 17 of the magnetic member 16. In this regard, the rotatable magnetic drive 82 can alternately attract and repel the magnetic member 16 disposed within the fluid agitating element 2, depending on the arrangement of the poles 84, 86 at a given point in time.
As illustrated in
In particular embodiments, as the positive pole 84 of the rotatable magnetic drive 82 engages with the magnetic member 16, the fluid agitating element 2 can be attracted to the rotatable magnetic drive 82, thus urging the fluid agitating element 2 to the second position. Conversely, as the negative pole 86 of the rotatable magnetic drive 82 engages with the magnetic member 16, the fluid agitating element 2 can be repelled away from the rotatable magnetic drive 82, thus urging the fluid agitating element 2 to the first position.
In another embodiment, as the positive pole 84 of the rotatable magnetic drive 82 engages with the magnetic member 16, the fluid agitating element 2 can be repelled from the rotatable magnetic drive 82, thus urging the fluid agitating element 2 to the first position. Conversely, as the negative pole 86 of the rotatable magnetic drive 82 engages with the magnetic member 16, the fluid agitating element 2 can be attracted to the rotatable magnetic drive 82, thus urging the fluid agitating element 2 to the second position.
In another embodiment illustrated in
In a particular embodiment, the electromagnet 90 can be positioned generally below the mixing assembly 1. In another embodiment, the electromagnet 90 can be positioned above the mixing assembly 1. In yet a further embodiment, the electromagnet 90 can be positioned at any position where it can couple with and reciprocate the fluid agitating element 2. It can be understood that the electromagnet 90 can be positioned either within the vessel or along the exterior of the vessel 34.
In a particular embodiment, the electromagnet 90 can alternate between a positive and negative magnetic force. In this regard, the fluid agitating element 2 will be urged to the first position when the force is either positive or negative, and will be urged to the second position when the force is the opposite of positive or negative.
In another embodiment, the electromagnet 90 can alternate between engagement and disengagement with the magnetic member 16. In a particular embodiment, the fluid agitating element 2 can have a lower density than the fluid to be mixed, thus making it more buoyant than the fluid. In this regard, the electromagnet 90 can attract the magnetic member 16 when in the engaged orientation. When the electromagnet 90 is disengaged from the magnetic member 16 the fluid agitating element 2 can translate to the first position. When the electromagnet 90 is engaged with the magnetic member 16 the fluid agitating element 2 can translate to the second position.
In a further embodiment, the fluid agitating element 2 can have a greater density than the fluid to be mixed. In this regard, the electromagnet 90 can repel the magnetic member 16 when in the engaged orientation. When the electromagnet 90 is engaged with the magnetic member 16 the fluid agitating element 2 can translate to the first position. When the electromagnet 90 is disengaged from the magnetic member 16 the fluid agitating element 2 can translate to the first position.
Note that not all of the activities described above in the general description or the examples are required, that a portion of a specific activity may not be required, and that one or more further activities may be performed in addition to those described. Still further, the order in which activities are listed is not necessarily the order in which they are performed.
Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all the claims.
The specification and illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of the various embodiments. The specification and illustrations are not intended to serve as an exhaustive and comprehensive description of all of the elements and features of apparatus and systems that use the structures or methods described herein. Separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment, and conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any subcombination. Further, reference to values stated in ranges includes each and every value within that range. Many other embodiments may be apparent to skilled artisans only after reading this specification. Other embodiments may be used and derived from the disclosure, such that a structural substitution, logical substitution, or another change may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.
Many different aspects and embodiments are possible. Some of those aspects and embodiments are described below. After reading this specification, skilled artisans will appreciate that those aspects and embodiments are only illustrative and do not limit the scope of the present invention. Embodiments may be in accordance with any one or more of the items as listed below.
Item 1. A mixing assembly, comprising:
Item 2. A mixing assembly, comprising:
Item 3. A mixing assembly, comprising:
Item 4. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising a diffusing element.
Item 5. The mixing assembly according to item 4, wherein the diffusing element comprises an annular band.
Item 6. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 4-5, wherein the diffusing element comprises an aperture.
Item 7. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 4-6, wherein the diffusing element comprises a plurality of apertures.
Item 8. The mixing assembly according to item 7, wherein the plurality of apertures have substantially the same size.
Item 9. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 7-8, wherein the plurality of apertures have substantially the same shape.
Item 10. The mixing assembly according to item 9, wherein the apertures have a substantially rectangular shape.
Item 11. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 7-10, wherein the diffusing element has an inner surface area, ADE, wherein the apertures define an area, AP, and wherein ADE is at least 1.1 AP, at least 1.2 AP, at least 1.3 AP, at least 1.4 AP, at least 1.5 AP, at least 1.6 AP, at least 1.7 AP, at least 1.8 AP, at least 1.9 AP, at least 2.0 AP, at least 2.1 AP, at least 2.2 AP, at least 2.3 AP, at least 2.4 AP, at least 2.5 AP, at least 2.6 AP, at least 2.7 AP, at least 2.8 AP, at least 2.9 AP, at least 3.0 AP, at least 3.5 AP, at least 4.0 AP, at least 4.5 AP.
Item 12. The mixing assembly according to item 11, wherein ADE is no greater than 10 AP, no greater than 9 AP, no greater than 8 AP, no greater than 7 AP, no greater than 6 AP, no greater than 5 AP, no greater than 4 AP, no greater than 3 AP.
Item 13. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 4-12, wherein the diffusing element further comprises a radial flange.
Item 14. The mixing assembly according to item 13, wherein the radial flange extends inward.
Item 15. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 4-14, wherein the diffusing element is frustoconical.
Item 16. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 4-15, wherein the diffusing element has a minimum circumference, CD, wherein the fluid agitating element has a maximum circumference, CFAE, and wherein CD is greater than CFAE.
Item 17. The mixing assembly according to item 16, wherein CD is 1.01 CFAE, 1.05 CFAE, 1.10 CFAE, 1.15 CFAE, 1.20 CFAE, 1.25 CFAE, 1.30 CFAE.
Item 18. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 15-17, wherein the diffusing element has a maximum circumference, CDMAX, and wherein CDMAX is at least 1.01 CD, at least 1.05 CD, at least 1.10 CD, at least 1.15 CD, at least 1.20 CD.
Item 19. The mixing assembly according to items 18, wherein CDMAX is no greater than 1.50 CD, no greater than 1.45 CD, no greater than 1.40 CD, no greater than 1.35 CD, no greater than 1.30 CD, no greater than 1.25 CD.
Item 20. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 16-19, wherein the diffusing element has a height, HD, and wherein HD is less than 0.50 CD, less than 0.45 CD, less than 0.40 CD, less than 0.35 CD, less than 0.30 CD, less than 0.25 CD, less than 0.20 CD, less than 0.15 CD, less than 0.10 CD.
Item 21. The mixing assembly according to item 20, wherein HD is greater than 1.005 CD, greater than 1.010 CD, greater than 1.015 CD, greater than 1.020 CD, greater than 1.025 CD, greater than 1.030 CD.
Item 22. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 4-21, wherein the diffusing element is engaged to a wall of a vessel.
Item 23. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 13-21, wherein the radial flange is engaged to a wall of a vessel.
Item 24. The missing assembly according to any one of items 4-21, wherein the diffusing element is engaged to a stir dish.
Item 25. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 4-24, wherein the diffusing element comprises a metal.
Item 26. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 4-24, wherein the diffusing element comprises a polymer.
Item 27. The mixing assembly according to item 26, wherein the diffusing element is injected molded.
Item 28. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 4-27, wherein the diffusing element is a monolithic piece.
Item 29. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 6-28, further comprising a valve element, the valve element extending at least partially around the diffusing element.
Item 30. The mixing assembly according to item 29, wherein the valve element comprises a plurality of gates, the gates at least partially aligned with the apertures.
Item 31. The mixing assembly according to item 30, wherein the valve element is adapted to permit fluid flow in a single radial direction.
Item 32. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 30-31, wherein the valve element is adapted to permit fluid flow in only a radial outward direction.
Item 33. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 30-32, wherein the valve element is adapted to inhibit fluid flow in a radial inward direction.
Item 34. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 29-33, wherein the valve element comprises a flexible material.
Item 35. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 29-34, wherein the gates have a greater flexibility than the reminder of the valve element.
Item 36. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 29-35, wherein the valve element has a greater flexibility than the diffusing element.
Item 37. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 29-36, wherein the valve element comprises a polymer, a thermoplastic material, an elastomer, a silicone based material, or combinations thereof.
Item 38. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 29-37, wherein the valve element has an average radial thickness, TV, wherein the diffusing element has a radial thickness, TD, and wherein TD is greater than TV.
Item 39. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 4-38, wherein the diffusing element further comprises a second valve element.
Item 40. The mixing assembly according to item 39, wherein the second valve element is substantially annular.
Item 41. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 39-40, wherein the second valve element is a monolithic piece.
Item 42. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 39-41, wherein the second valve element is engaged with the diffusing element proximate an outer circumference of the diffusing element.
Item 43. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 39-42, wherein the second valve element is engaged with the fluid agitating element.
Item 44. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 39-43, wherein the second valve element has a plurality of gates, wherein the gates are adapted to permit fluid flow in a single direction.
Item 45. The mixing assembly according to item 44, wherein the second valve element is adapted to permit fluid flow in a radial inward direction.
Item 46. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 29-45, wherein the valve element comprises a flexible material.
Item 47. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 29-46, wherein the gates have a greater flexibility than the reminder of the valve element.
Item 48. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 29-47, wherein the valve element has a greater flexibility than the diffusing element.
Item 49. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 37-48, wherein the second valve element comprises a silicone based material.
Item 50. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the fluid agitating element comprises a generally circular plate when viewed from the top, having an average diameter, DFAE.
Item 51. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the fluid agitating element is radially tapered.
Item 52. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the fluid agitating element comprises a first surface and a second surface, and wherein the first and second surfaces are radially tapered.
Item 53. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the fluid agitating element comprises a cavity defining a volume.
Item 54. The mixing assembly according to item 53, wherein the magnetic member is disposed at least partially within the volume.
Item 55. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the magnetic member is hermetically sealed within the fluid agitating element.
Item 56. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the magnetic member is over-molded into the fluid agitating element.
Item 57. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising a support, wherein the fluid agitating element is coupled to the support, and wherein the fluid agitating element is adapted to translate along the support.
Item 58. The mixing assembly according to item 57, further comprising a fluid pump bearing adapted to provide a fluid layer between the support and the fluid agitating element, the fluid pump bearing defined by an annular cavity formed between the support and fluid agitating element.
Item 59. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 57-68, wherein the support includes a plurality of flutes.
Item 60. The mixing assembly of item 59, wherein the flutes are oriented at an angle ACF, as defined by the angle between the flutes and the central axis of the support, and wherein ACF is at least 2 degrees, at least 3 degrees, at least 4 degrees, at least 5 degrees, at least 10 degrees, at least 15 degrees, or even at least 20 degrees.
Item 61. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 57-60, further comprising a plug, wherein the plug is adapted to engage proximate a distal end of the support.
Item 62. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the fluid agitating element comprises a polymer.
Item 63. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the mixing assembly has a buoyancy, wherein a fluid to be mixed has a buoyancy, and wherein the buoyancy of the mixing assembly is less than the buoyancy of the fluid.
Item 64. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the fluid agitating element is adapted to periodically reciprocate between a first position and a second position.
Item 65. The mixing assembly according to item 64, wherein the fluid agitating element is adapted to translate in a reciprocating manner through a stroke length, S, as measured between the first and second positions.
Item 66. The mixing assembly according to item 65, wherein the fluid agitating element has an average diameter, DFAE, and wherein S is no less than 0.1 DFAE, no less than 0.2 DFAE, no less than 0.3 DFAE, no less than 0.4 DFAE, no less than 0.5 DFAE, no less than 0.6 DFAE, no less than 0.7 DFAE, no less than 0.8 DFAE, no less than 0.9 DFAE, no less than 1.0 DFAE, no less than 1.5 DFAE.
Item 67. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 65-66, wherein S is no greater than 5.0 DFAE, no greater than 4.5 DFAE, no greater than 4.0 DFAE, no greater than 3.5 DFAE, no greater than 3.0 DFAE, no greater than 2.5 DFAE, no greater than 2.0 DFAE, no greater than 1.5 DFAE.
Item 68. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 65-67, wherein the fluid agitating element reciprocates at no less than 3 strokes per minute (SPM), no less than 5 SPM, no less than 10 SPM, no less than 20 SPM, no less than 30 SPM, no less than 40 SPM, no less than 50 SPM, no less than 75 SPM, no less than 100 SPM, no less than 150 SPM, no less than 200 SPM.
Item 69. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 1, 2, 4-68, wherein the magnetic member is adapted to magnetically couple to a drive device.
Item 70. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the magnetic member comprises a ferromagnetic material.
Item 71. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the magnetic member comprises a ferromagnetic material selected from the group consisting of steel, iron, cobalt, nickel, and earth magnets.
Item 72. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the drive device comprises a rotating driving magnet.
Item 73. The mixing assembly according to item 72, wherein the rotating driving magnet is bipolar.
Item 74. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 72-73, wherein the mixing assembly has a central axis, wherein the drive device has a central axis, and wherein the central axis of the mixing assembly is adapted to misalign with the central axis of the drive device.
Item 75. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 3 or 72-74, wherein the drive device comprises an electromagnetic element.
Item 76. The mixing assembly according to item 75, wherein the electromagnetic element is adapted to intermittently attract and repel the magnetic member.
Item 77. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 3, 69-76, wherein the mixing assembly is adapted such that a pumping action is generated in a fluid upon the magnetic member being attracted to the drive device.
Item 78. The mixing assembly according to item 77, wherein the mixing assembly is adapted to generate a fluidic pressure gradient within the fluid, characterized in that the fluid adjacent to a first face of the fluid agitating element has a higher pressure than the fluid adjacent to a second face of the fluid agitating element.
Item 79. The mixing assembly according to item 78, wherein increased fluidic pressure causes a turbulent fluidic net flow.
Item 80. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the mixing assembly is adapted to engage with a wall of a vessel.
Item 81. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 4-80, wherein the diffusing element is adapted to engage with a wall of a vessel.
Item 82. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 80-81, wherein the vessel comprises a flexible liner adapted to contain a fluid.
Item 83. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 80-82, wherein the vessel comprises a rigid container.
Item 84. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 80-83, wherein the mixing assembly is adapted to engage with a bottom wall of the vessel.
Item 85. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the mixing assembly is adapted to pump a fluid.
Item 86. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the mixing assembly is adapted to pump a fluid through an aperture.
Item 87. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the mixing assembly is adapted to generate turbulence within a fluid.
Item 88. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the fluid agitating element is adapted to reciprocate in a fluid, and wherein the fluid agitating element is adapted to generate a flow of the fluid within a vessel.
Item 89. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the mixing assembly is adapted to reciprocate within a vessel, and wherein the fluid agitating element is adapted to create a net circular flow of a fluid within a vessel.
Item 90. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein adjustment of the relative movement of the fluid agitating element is determinative of a quantity of vortex rings generated in the fluid.
Item 91. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein adjustment of the relative movement of the fluid agitating element is determinative of rate of generation of a quantity of vortex rings generated in the fluid.
Item 92. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 90-91, wherein adjustment of the relative movement of the fluid agitating element is determinative of a size of the vortex rings generated in the fluid.
Item 93. The mixing assembly according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the fluid agitating element further comprises at least one aperture.
Item 94. The mixing assembly according to item 93, wherein the fluid agitating element has a total surface area, SAFAE, wherein the at least one aperture forms a total cutout area, CAA, within the fluid agitating element, and wherein a ratio of SAFAE:CAA is at least 1.01, at least 1.5, at least 2.0, at least 2.5, at least 3.0, at least 3.5, at least 4.0, at least 5.0, at least 10.0, at least 20.0.
Item 95. The mixing assembly according to item 94, wherein the ratio of SAFAE:CAA is no greater than 1000, no greater than 900, no greater than 800, no greater than 700, no greater than 600, no greater than 500, no greater than 400, no greater than 300, no greater than 200, no greater than 100, no greater than 50, no greater than 25, no greater than 10.
Item 96. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 93-95, wherein the fluid agitating element further comprises a third valve element.
Item 97. The mixing assembly according to item 96, wherein the third valve element is substantially annular.
Item 98. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 96-97, wherein the third valve element is a monolithic piece.
Item 99. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 96-98, wherein the third valve element is engaged with the fluid agitating element.
Item 100. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 96-99, wherein the third valve element substantially covers the at least one aperture in the fluid agitating element, and wherein the third valve element is adapted to prevent fluid flow through the at least one aperture.
Item 101. The mixing assembly according to item 100, wherein the third valve element is adapted to prevent fluid flow through the at least one aperture in a direction away from the diffusing element.
Item 102. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 96-101, wherein the third valve element has a greater flexibility than the fluid agitating element.
Item 103. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 96-102, wherein the third valve element comprises a silicone based material.
Item 104. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 4-103, wherein a mixing cavity is defined by a volume located between the diffusing element and the fluid agitating element.
Item 105. The mixing assembly according to item 104, wherein the fluid agitating element is adapted to permit a fluid to pass therethrough and into the mixing cavity.
Item 106. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 104-105, wherein the fluid agitating element is adapted to permit a fluid to enter the mixing cavity.
Item 107. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 104-106, wherein the fluid agitating element is adapted to permit fluidic flow into the mixing cavity.
Item 108. The mixing assembly according to any one of items 104-107, wherein the fluid agitating element is adapted to permit increased fluidic flow into the mixing cavity.
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Jul 18 2014 | Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corporation | (assignment on the face of the patent) | / | |||
Aug 08 2014 | WERTH, ALBERT A | Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics Corporation | ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS | 033756 | /0096 |
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